James T. Key

James "Jim" Thomas Key, 76, of Benton, passed away February 24, 2014. He was born on November 13, 1937 in Carthage, Tennessee to the late Tommy and Lovie (Bennett) Key. Jim proudly served his country in the United States Army in which he received numerous decorations, medals, and honors including National Defense Service Medal, Army Commendation Medal 2D OLC, Vietnam Service Medal with 4 Campaign Stars, Bronze Star Medal 1st OLC, Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm, 4 Overseas Service Bars, Good Conduct Medal (6 times), Meritorious Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit. He retired as Sergeant Major. Jim loved all types of sports. He enjoyed watching his grandchildren play football, basketball, baseball, golf, dance, and cheerleading. He was a Tennessee Volunteers fan. Following retirement, Jim enjoyed spending time golfing. Most importantly, he loved his family unconditionally. Jim is survived by his loving wife of 56 years, Eula (Hunt) Key of Benton, Arkansas; son, Jeffery Key and wife Lois of Hendersonville, Tenn.; three daughters, Renee Ray and husband Christopher of Maumelle, Ark., Tina Gute and husband Dave of El Paso, Texas, and Melissa Key of Benton, Ark.; 11 grandchildren, David Ray, Kristy Schreiner, Justin Ray, Kirby Grissom, Amanda Ray, Lauren Gute, Ashley Ray, Jordan Tompkins, Kevin Key, Leo Gute, and Monica Tompkins; two great-grandchildren, three sisters, Linda Bryant, Betty Estes and husband Pete, and Carol Underhill and husband Norman; brother, Billy Joe Key; as well as many other family members and friends who loved Jim and will miss him always. Jim was preceded in death by his parents and brother, Charlie Key. Funeral service will be Friday, February 28th, 2014 at 9 a.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home, 322 N. Market Street, Benton, Ark. 72015 with burial following at the Arkansas State Veterans Cemetery in North Little Rock. A visitation will be held Thursday, February 27th, 2014 from 6-8 p.m. at Smith Family Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Wounded Warrior Project. For more information, call 501-778-7100. Online guestbook: www.SmithFamilyCares.com.